Wingbeats: Learning to appreciate the beauty in life

I ask your indulgence this month. April has been a month of reflection for me. There have been some changes in my life that have increased my awareness of the beauty of nature that surrounds me daily.

Spring is the most beautiful time of year as we watch life return to earth and sky. It is the return of life that has been on my mind most of late.

My mother was recently diagnosed with lung cancer and it was necessary to place her in a nursing home. God blessed us with placement in one of the most beautiful nursing homes in the area. Although Mom's cancer has not reached its peak as yet, we have both become much more aware of God's good blessings and the importance of living each day to its fullest. We have no guarantee of tomorrow and God gives us new blessings every day.

We have both found this spring to be the best one yet. Maybe it is because we realize now how fragile life truly is. God gives us so much beauty to behold every day and unless we take the time to enjoy it, we will fail to notice it.

Everything seems more vibrant this year. We are noticing each small detail of rebirth. My mother's room at the nursing home has a huge window that overlooks a beautifully landscaped yard with a gazebo. We seem to be able to see the trees leafing out; each day they appear greener. Blossoms seem to happen right before our eyes.

Mom has always enjoyed birds and was the one who instilled that love into me. We have always taken great joy in watching and feeding birds.

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She sits in front of that big window now and watches the bird life and revels in the beauty of each species.

Life gets so busy and at times we feel guilty if we slow down. This beautiful earth and all it has to offer has not been placed here for us to speed through.

Take time to refresh your spirit and your soul. Take time with your children and your grandchildren and teach them to love our earth and what it has to offer.

Realize that there are no guarantees. Enjoy life, family and your good health while you have it. Age and illness can strike before you realize and limit you.

Spring is the time to notice and enjoy the many winged gems flying around us. Seek them out. Watch them. Draw them near with feeders and see how quickly you become hooked on them.

Enjoy nature. Enjoy life. Enjoy health and vitality while you have it.
Happy birding!

Bobbie Stewart is a bird lover and member of Conococheague Audubon Society, which meets monthly at Norlo Park in Guilford Township.

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